
The North Face
Wawona 6
Spacious vestibule, strong in storms, but rainfly tricky solo.

Running these analyses costs money. Buy through my links to help keep lights on! I may get a small commission.
A trekking pole tent? When he said he wanted comfort, ease of setup, and didn’t prioritize weight. Plus trekking poles, would likely be an added cost. The Paria Outdoors Zion 3p would be a much better choice. Fully freestanding, dual wall, 20d/40d Nylon materials, around 5lbs without the included footprint and plenty of space. Also under $200 shipped. I’ve had the 2p for over a decade now, the only issue I’ve had is a torn stuff sack from an exposed tent pole. It still works, even the stuff sack is made from rip stop, but I’m sure they’d send me a new one if I asked since they offer a lifetime warranty.
Paria Tents are great. Zion or Bryce 2P. I’ve had the Zion 3P for a few years, used dozens of times and it’s held up perfectly.
I have a Zion 3P, and while I wish the structure were a little more taut, I’m impressed by the value. The Bryce with the front entry looks a little more like what I’m used to with the North Face, and might be worth a try
[https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent](https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent) This company makes two that are great. I have the Zion and love it, but if I remember correctly, I originally decided on their other model, the Bryce, but they were sold out at the time. Both models are $169. Not the type of gear you'd be ashamed to own because you saved a few bucks. They are quality. Think the Zion is just a hair over 3lbs. You buy that walmart tent, it'll be in a trash can at some trailhead one day soon , but do what you got to do I guess.
[https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent](https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent) This company makes two that are great. I have the Zion and love it, but if I remember correctly, I originally decided on their other model, the Bryce, but they were sold out at the time. Both models are $169. Not the type of gear you'd be ashamed to own because you saved a few bucks. They are quality. Think the Zion is just a hair over 3lbs. You buy that walmart tent, it'll be in a trash can at some trailhead one day soon , but do what you got to do I guess.
It's quality. Been using the Zion for a few years. If you wanted to spend double or triple to save a pound, that's up to you, but these are not cheap chinese garbage. The poles are quality and the tent is a smart design.
3 person backpacking tent is what you need for 2 people or you will be on top of each other. Unless your wife is a badass and willing to be uncomfortable in order to save a pound, I'd probably just spring for a little extra space. [https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent](https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent) These (Zion) are a fantastic mix of cheap and quality if you want to save a couple hundred bucks. You can get a little lighter if you want to spend double or triple, but not really worth it to me.
On the other end - I have the Arches 2P Trekking pole tent (from Paria) Me (5'7" 200lbs ) and my son (6'3" 170lbs) fit in it comfortably - there is a door and a vestibule to store the pack & shoes on each side. Zion 5 lbs vs Arches 2 lbs 13 oz But you have to have trekking poles & practice setting it up before you go (I use the Costco carbon poles 2 sets for $60) The Parias are probably relabeled Chinese tents (Lanshan 2 for the Arches) but they are good quality Also - don't buy a pack until you have your gear - take your gear + 3 days of food and see what it will fit (Liters)
Check Paria Outdoor Products. Based in Colorado. Stuff most likely made on China as outdoor companies do. For free standing tents they have their Bryce and Zion models. I like the Bryce's color better, the Zion has side entry vestibules that works better for this old man. They have a trekking pole tent, the Arches model. Good customer service there which is important if something goes amiss. https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/

The North Face
Wawona 6
Spacious vestibule, strong in storms, but rainfly tricky solo.

Gazelle Tents
T4 Hub Tent Series
Fastest setup, durable, but bulky and awkward door.

Durston
X-Mid 2
Ultralight, spacious 2P, but not for very strong winds.

Durston
X-Mid 1
Budget ultralight 1P, spacious, but large footprint.

Naturehike
Mongar 2 Backpack Tent (Nylon)
Budget 2P, spacious for price, but not for 4 seasons.

Ranked #1
Durston - X-Mid 2

Ranked #1
Gazelle Tents - T4 Hub Tent Series

Ranked #1
Gazelle Tents - T4 Hub Tent Series

Ranked #1
Durston - X-Mid 2

Ranked #1
Durston - X-Mid 2

Ranked #1
SlingFin - Portal 2